The New England Patriots have reached an agreement with veteran defensive lineman Alan Branch for him to re-sign with the team. Branch was able to land a 2-year deal worth a total of $12 million. NFL Network reporter Ian Rapoport first reported the news.
The #Patriots are signing DT Alan Branch back on a 2-year deal worth up to $12M, source says. They are finalizing it now.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) March 9, 2017
Branch was a key member of the Super Bowl winning defense this past season. Entering his age 33 season, Branch has played the last 3 seasons in New England heading into the stretch run of his career with 2 Super Bowls in hand. According to Pro Football Focus, Branch was the 25th best defensive tackle in football in 2016.
The defensive line for the Patriots still looks strong as Trey Flowers, Malcom Brown, and Vincent Valentine make up the other starters. New England also made a big splash in free agency adding former Bills cornerback Stephon Gillmore.
